LTE TLR

Dear Editor,

I keep up with your on-line journal and just want to say that I really respect the dedication and tenacity of your team.  Mr. Fillmore is doing an outstanding job and after doing the leg work always comes to the same conclusion that I did while working for the Town of Lisbon: SOMETHING STINKS!  I noticed some shady things while working as the Economic Development Director.  I noticed things go further South after they hired Steve Eldridge.  Eldridge, Brooks, and Therriault have been wasting taxpayer money from the get go.  Shortly after I left and Eldridge came on board, the three stooges decided that they were going to fight me getting unemployment. 

I applied for unemployment after leaving Lisbon.  I didn't want to leave the position but was forced out by Brooks and his threatening and intimidating behavior.  One must ponder why Brooks would be acting that way after the Economic Development Director discovered fraudulent use of funds.  You would think that the Town of Lisbon would be grateful for the discovery.  Instead I was treated as though I was the enemy who had the potential to harm them further if I stayed on the job.  With that said, why would these goons fight the unemployment?  Why would they be so hostile towards someone who discovered the illegal activity?

I applied for unemployment based on the rule that I left the position on my accord but for just cause:  Brooks.  After I plead my case, it was granted.  After a short period of time, the three stooges decided they were going to contest the fact that I was awarded unemployment.  Again, why?  Why treat me like the enemy to begin with?  And why fight the unemployment?  So, we had a hearing.  It was me against Brooks, Eldridge, and Therriault.  I don't know about you but I didn't expect a lawyer at the lowest level of the unemployment hearings.  Of course, it was stacked against me.  And, some how it got turned into me being terminated for wrong-doing.  Chief Brooks brought up that I had leaked information about the case.  Of course Brooks denied treating me badly in any way and the whole thing got turned on me.  I lost the case and lost the ability to collect future unemployment earnings.  I had collected roughly $2,500 thus far.

I contested the decision made at the Administrative Hearing and the case went to the next level which was in front of the Unemployment Insurance Commission.  I prepared my case thinking that the three stooges would pull the same crap they did at the first hearing.  They accused me of wrong-doing therefore I went prepared to prove that I never engaged in any wrong-doing of any kind including talking about the case.  They had accused me of leaking the information to Dale Crafts so I got a sworn statement from Dale Crafts stating that I never said a word to him.  Low and behold, the three stooges showed up again.  This time I had an attorney.  Not once did they mention anything about any wrong-doing.  I had my attorney do all the questioning.  The three stooges sat there and denied and lied.  They didn't accuse me of anything, they didn't offer an affirmative defense, nothing.  They didn't even ask me any questions.  For some reason, they were all tight lipped this time.  All the preparation I had done for the case was all of a sudden null and void.  

In the end, the Town of Lisbon won this case as well but this time it was because of a technicality.  The Unemployment Insurance Commission decided that I should have told Brooks what he was doing wrong so that he would have had an opportunity to accommodate me.  We all know that it wouldn't have changed a thing but nonetheless the decision was made based on case law and I respected it.  This decision meant that I had to pay the $2,500 back to the State.  But, I never had to pay back the money because I was told that I could apply for a waiver.  I applied for the waiver and it was granted.  All of the time and money wasted by the Town of Lisbon was for what?  $2,500 that didn't even go back to them?  $2,500 that I never even had to pay back?  It still dumbfounds me.  Why even bother Lisbon?  It cost them money and time to go through this process. I know Therriault isn't cheap and given the salaries of Brooks and Eldridge...  Why the hostility?  Why the lies?  Why fight the unemployment?  I still cannot come up with a logical explanation on their behalf.  

Mr. Fillmore is bringing up all the ways that Eldridge has wasted taxpayer money recently.  I am writing to tell you that he has been wasting taxpayer money since the day that he was hired.  He had just started his job when he made the decision to contest the unemployment.  The three stooges which included the town attorney not only prepared for this but they spent a significant amount of time dealing with the unemployment bureau to ensure that I lost.  The money stopped when they won the first time.  I was not collecting unemployment when we went in front of the unemployment insurance commission.  One has to ask why these men found it so important to not only stop me from getting unemployment but assuring that I had to pay back the amount that was awarded.  Why?  Why was it worth spending taxpayer money to go after me, especially when I was considered a witness in a case (that has since been dropped by the Attorney General's office).  Why all the trouble? 

I'm not going to speculate on behalf of Eldridge, Brooks, and Therriault but this information certainly does confirm Eldridge's pattern of wasting taxpayer's money.    

--

Jennifer Norris

Western Maine

 

"Do the right thing even when no one is looking." - US Air Force

Town Council Agenda For February 21, 2012

AGENDA
TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2012
LISBON TOWN OFFICE
7:00 P.M.

1. CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE TO FLAG

2. ROLL CALL
___Councilor Bickford
___ Councilor Bowie
___ Councilor Larochelle
___ Councilor Lunt
___Councilor Mason
___ Councilor Pomelow
___ Councilor Ward
Town Clerk reading of meeting rules

3. PUBLIC HEARING
A. 2012-2013 Capital Improvement Budget
B. Chapter 24 Article 1 Fireworks Ordinance
C. Special Entertainment Permit – Sandra Harkins d/b/a Railroad Restaurant & Pub

4. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION

5. CONSENT AGENDA
2012-16 ORDER −
A. Special Entertainment Permit & Liquor License – Sandra Harkins d/b/a Railroad Restaurant & Pub
B. Road Posting for February 22, 2012 to May 1, 2012

6. COUNCIL ORDERS, RESOLUTIONS, & ORDINANCES
2012-17 ORDER −
2012-2013 Capital Improvement Budget
2012-18 ORDER −
Chapter 24 Article 1 Fireworks Ordinance (Second Reading)
2012-19 ORDER −
Animal Control Contract - Bowdoin
2012-20 ORDER −
Animal Control Contract - Durham
2012-21 ORDER −
Animal Control Contract - Sabattus
2012-22 ORDER −
Town Manager’s Contract

7. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Lisbon Promotions Committee Presentation – Ross Cunningham
B. Finance Director’s Report
C. Town Manager’s Report

8. APPOINTMENTS
2012-24 ORDER −
Resignation (1) Trail Commission

9. COUNCILOR COMMUNICATIONS

10. EXECUTIVE SESSION
2012-25 ORDER −
1 MRSA § 405 (6) (C) Acquisition of real property - 16 Lisbon Street

11. ADJOURNMENT
2012-26 ORDER −
To Adjourn

12. WORKSHOP - Municipal Department Analysis
A. Finance/Tax Collector
B. Town Clerk
C. Town Manager/ Code Enforcement

A Citizen Writes: Re: The Lisbon Reporter

I am a lifelong resident of Lisbon Falls, and one who has enjoyed my hometown and its citizens immensely in thought ,word and deed for over 65 years . I am fortunate to know and converse with  hundreds of our town citizens in my Barbershop which I have operated for over 40 years to date. 

Never ,in my opinion,and in all my years in Lisbon, have I witnessed such  'mis'management of our town than  by our current Town Manager, Steve Eldredge and his 'enforcer' Ryan Leighton. This 'team' has run roughshod over too many of our good citizens, and it's time for it to stop. 

I voted for the Council form of government we presently are enduring, but I feel that 'we the people' have lost our voice under this administration.

 

Faye Brown

Lisbon's fiscal Mismanagement.‏

February brings cold temperatures and thoughts of next years budget.

It has come to my attention, thanks to Mr. Filmore's research, that Lisbon is paying over 160 thousand dollars in excessive salaries for just 8 of our department heads when compared to Skowhegan's pay scale. (A town of similar size)

Finance Director --------------$11,748  more than Skowhegan
Town Manager-----------------$23,749  
Code Enforcement
Landfill
Transfer Station----------------$20,637
Economic Development------$11,367
Police Chief----------------------$7,521
Fire Chief-------------------------$3,180
Wastewater Supv.--------------$11,614
Town Engineer------------------$70,723
                               Total-----$160,539 more than Skowhegan

If you  apply this to the FY11's total tax levy of $9,654,000,  we are paying approx. 40 cents of our Mil rate for these excessive salaries.  That's about $60 dollars for the average $150,000
dollar house.

Now keep in mind this is just 8 employees.. If you go through our entire budget I am confident you will find this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Last Nov. we went to the ballot box and told our council we want to vote on the Town budget. This vote was a resounding Mandate of over 80% . 

Despite this mandate  last weeks council meeting  saw the foundation being set to deny us our vote on the Town Budget. Several of the founders of  our charter were requested to speak to give their reasons for not letting the taxpayers vote on the budget.

The Councilors still don’t “get it”   WE WANT TO VOTE ON THE BUDGET.  There is no room for interpretation.    WE WANT TO VOTE.....

What is keeping our councilors from respecting the will of the people.  Do they have some financial or other reason for snubbing their noses at the electorate?

I have heard rumors of town corruption and mismanagement for years.  Most of these I have taken  with a grain of salt but after this  obvious disregard for the publics wishes I am not so sure that the rumors don’t have a basis in truth.

It is time to pull our heads out of the sand and fix our fiscal problems. Ignoring them will only make matters worse.

We may need a forensic audit to uncover the full extent of this mismanagement.

Respectfully
Joe Hill
LisbonMaine.net

MISMANAGEMENT‏

 Dot Fitzgerald

Larry Fillmore's article (see below) is a prime example of why the Town of Lisbon's taxes are so high;

Putting a non-qualified person in charge of four (4) departments when he is barely qualified to head the

ones  (two) he was already in charge of.

It's too bad the workshops are not taped and aired on TV. Viewers would have seen Ryan Leighton

red-faced and stammering about the difficulties at the Public Works and Transfer Station.

Councilor Ward may have been on the right track when she mentioned that perhaps the employees

at those two departments need training. Or is it Department Head Ryan Leighton that needs the

Management Training?

It would seem that Town Manager Steve Eldridge is the one most in need of management training.

To put an untrained, unqualified person in charge of Solid Waste, plus Public Works and the Transfer

Station, in addition to the Engineering Department is, simply put, pure insanity and irresponsible.  

Dot Fitzgerald

A Very Concerned Lisbon Citizen

In Lisbon The Beat Goes On - A Pure Waste

A PURE WASTE OF $70,000 TAX DOLLARS

Last year’s budget included an 8.5% pay increase to the town engineer because the town manager decided to consolidate Public Works, Solid Waste, and Sewer Department under the town engineer.   Remember, the town engineer has never had more than one individual to supervise in the past twelve years and now he has approximately 16 full time; 4 part time and 2 summer personnel to directly supervise with absolutely no managerial training or experience.   According to the town, Leighton has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from UM; 16 additional credits in Civil Engineering; a Grade 2 Waste Water Operations License and is a certified Code Enforcement Officer. 

 

 Councilor Bowie

At last Tuesday’s Workshop, Councilor Bowie asked Leighton how the consolidation was working out and Leighton replied there were problems.  During the discussion that followed it came out, Leighton was having issues with personnel not complying with his guidance.  Councilor Ward also asked questions pertaining to why there were so many issues.  Town Manager Eldridge tried to rescue the situation by informing everyone that department heads are receiving managerial training.  If the department heads do not have managerial skills; what in the world qualifies these individuals to be hired as department heads with these inflated salaries, in this case $70,000.  This clearly demonstrates the incompetency of the town manager and also show’s a complete lack of respect for the individuals who had previously held these positions such as Wayne Ricker, now retired, Button Beale, and Gerald Kamke.

Councilor Ward

 

The most important aspect of this whole situation is Ryan Leighton is not a Licensed Professional Engineer and therefore cannot legally perform duties as an Engineer on any project over $100,000 dollars.  On the handout provided, it states under his Brief Description of Responsibilities “Prepare RFP’s, plan and supervise all major capital projects including computer upgrade, trails projects, public works road work, equipment replacement, etc.”  This statement is an outright lie because in the previous workshop Leighton himself stated the town will have to hire a Licensed Professional Engineer to supervise the trails project because it exceeds $100,000.  So, why are we wasting $70,000 a year to an individual who does not possess the required credentials to supervise our projects?  The town will have to hire an additional engineer who is a Licensed Professional Engineer  for all projects over $100,000.

The Solid Waste and Public Works Departments have always received outstanding comments from the Public and dedicated years of professional service under their respective department heads; so why change it.  If it is not broken why fix it!!!!!   The Waste Water Treatment Plant is rated as Class 4 by the State of Maine.  Leighton is only a Class 2 Operator and technically cannot be at the plant unless supervised by a Class 4 or 5 individual.  So, the real question is “If the State of Maine is holding our Class 4 & 5 personnel responsibility for the Waste Water Treatment Plant, how can Leighton be the Superintendent of Sewer?  What possible managerial skills does he bring to the table and how can he tell these two Class 4 & 5 personnel what to do when he is not qualified himself?” 



 
You do not have to be a rocket scientist to understand the stupid of consolidation under an individual who has never supervised personnel and who has absolutely no managerial training or experience.   This consolidation was done to justify Leighton receiving an 8.5% increase in his already inflated salary.  The real crime here is the town manager making a move like this which resulted in absolute no cost saving to the taxpayer of Lisbon because all of the previous department heads received the same salary and Leighton received a pay raise.  The town manager has no respect for the dedication and professionalism the town employees have devoted to this town.  Again, an individual (town manager) who does not understand good management practices. 

How much longer does the town of Lisbon have to put up with this mismanagement of town employees and the waste of our tax dollars?

 Town manager Eldridge

 The town manager’s evaluation is being reviewed by the town council and the council will approve keeping the town manager but the only way to stop this injustice is by getting rid of the cause.  Eldridge makes all decisions on town employees so he is responsible for this situation.  Lisbon cannot begin to heal without getting rid of the cancer in this town, Eldridge.

Larry Fillmore
Concerned Citizen

Is This Remiss Of Lisbon's Professional Development Slush Fund? - UPDATE: Maine Housing Spent Millions in Travel and Training‏

 

UPDATE: MAINE HOUSING SPENT MILLIONS IN TRAVEL, TRAINING

 

Travel spending has risen 137% in last five years, training has risen 287%

 

PORTLAND - Data obtained by The Maine Heritage Policy Center as part of a Freedom of Access

Act request shows the Maine State Housing Authority spent millions on travel and training

expenses over the last 12 years.

Since 1998, MSHA spent approximately $1.6 million in business travel. Spending in this

category has risen 247% since 1998, and 137% since the current director, Dale McCormick, took

over the operation in 2005.

 

MSHA has spent more than $4.5 million in education and training expenses since 1998. The annual amount spent on training actually decreased from 1998 to 2004, but rose a staggering

287% since McCormick took over. In 2004, the annual training expense at MSHA was $267,000.

By 2010, it had risen to over $779,000 per year.

 

 

 

Additionally, Maine Housing has spent over $10.1 million on consulting fees, categorized as ‘professional services.’ In 1998, MSHA spent roughly $332,000 on consultants. In 2010, that

number had increased to more than $1.5 million a year, a 462% increase.

 

The categorization of Maine Housing expenditures points to many more potential problems with the financial management of the organization. Many of the expenses within these categories appear

to be misallocated, casting a shadow on the veracity of the data released.

 

The ‘education/training’ category in particular appears to be used as a catch-all for dining and entertainment expenditures. Listed within this category are such heralded institutions of higher

learning as the Ground Round restaurant in Augusta, Pushard’s Okinawan Karate,  Abracadabra Productions, a magician, and Little Dan’s BBQ.

 

Expenses paid to Funtown/Splashtown USA, a Saco water park, are listed as ‘office supplies’,

along with  Are You Ready to Party, inc., Healing Hands Therapeutic Massage, and Sandcastle Entertainment, a company that rents inflatable bounce-houses and slides.

 

“It is clear that the Maine State Housing Authority has strayed far from its mission,” said Lance

Dutson, Chief Executive Officer of The Maine Heritage Policy Center. “A line-by-line accounting of MSHA expenditures needs to happen, and accountability for potentially millions in wasted spending needs to be established. With 6,500 families on a waiting list for affordable housing, and with a considerable shortfall in federal heating assistance, wasting precious public dollars, especially on

this grand a scale, cannot be tolerated.”

Snowmobiler Has Near Miss With Cliff Edge - Awesome Ski Doo Video - 'HeBeDoonit'

"This is My View and That is My Doo"

"Where We Want To Be‏"

Dear Patriot, This is where we wanted to be. We have planned and strategized in preparation for this very moment. We have demonstrated that we can unite Conservatives and win states- even states that Mitt Romney won four years ago. Now, according to a new poll from Public Policy Polling, I am LEADING Mitt Romney nationwide by a double digit margin. Here are the results: Santorum 38% Romney: 23% Gingrich 17% Paul 13% We know this race has seesawed back and forth so we don't expect for a moment that Romney and his allies in the liberal media are going to let us stay there. But this does confirm what we already knew: we are picking up momentum and are in the right place to take advantage of it. We have a strategy that has produced victories and can win us the Republican nomination. And we need to keep it going. Will you help us? This poll comes on the heels of three huge wins last week in Colorado, Minnesota and Missouri. Conservatives across the country are coming together and uniting behind this campaign. Everything is going our direction for the moment, but that's the very reason we can't let up--the Romney campaign is starting to get desperate. Governor Romney does not have a consistent record of conservatism that he can run on. Because of that, he can't talk about his story and will instead spend tens of millions of dollars in negative, dishonest, personal attacks on my record and my character. I saw what Mitt Romney did to Newt Gingrich after he lost South Carolina. Romney is right now making plans to do the same thing to me in Michigan--carpet bomb the state with dishonest ads.  We need to be ready so we can fight back! That's not going to be good enough to defeat President Obama. The GOP standard bearer must convey a clear vision of Reagan Conservatism to the American people if we are going to win this election. Running an inauthentic, Massachusetts moderate is not going to fire up conservatives, and it's not going to appeal to independents. We can't do it if we're going to defeat President Obama. Every four years, people say, "This is the most important election of our lifetime." I think that's true this year, but I'll go even farther than that: this is the most important election in American history. President Obama's vision for this country is to fundamentally change us from a free market, capitalist system to a Republic in the mold of the faded, decrepit Republics of Western Europe. We simply cannot allow four more years of this. We are winning elections and the polls are all trending our way. I am going to win the Republican Nomination for President and defeat Barack Obama. But it's not going to happen without your help, right now. Not tomorrow, not next week. Right now. Let's get it done! For America, Rick Santorum Conservative Republican for President .

Nothing Paid to The Lisbon Reporter

Lisbon Community School Student Council Tour Town Office‏

LISBON COMMUNITY SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCIL LEARN LIFE LESSONS AT LISBON TOWN OFFICE

 

Student Council members of Lisbon Community School met with Lisbon Town Manager, Steve Eldridge (pictured right), to learn about the services and town resources available in Lisbon.  Eldridge conducted the student tour throughout the Town Office. Students attending included Vanessa Bussiere, Grace Tibbetts, Devin Wordell, Emily St. Pierre, Kristian Grover, Joey Frederick, Charlee Cox, Timber Mattson, Zekeriah Mason, Carolyn Shane, Giana Russo, Rebecca Budesheim, Sean Spaulding, Levi Levesque, Lindsay Huston, Peyton Gosselin and Emma DiGregorio.  Photo by Monica Millhime.

Lisbon – Members of the Lisbon Community School Student Council participated in an out-of-the classroom learning opportunity at the Town Office of Lisbon on Tuesday, January 31.  Thanks to the assistance of Town Manager, Steve Eldridge, and his assistant, Jody Durisko, students along with LCS Assistant Principal / Student Council Advisor, Ryan Patrie and Community Resource Coordinator, Monica Millhime, members were given a tour of the municipal offices of the Town of Lisbon.  LCS students are embarking on a series of community partnership visits around Lisbon as part of their Student Council regularly scheduled after school meetings.  Last month students toured the Lisbon Area Christian Outreach food pantry and clothing bank.  A visit to the Lisbon Transfer Station is scheduled for Tuesday, February 28 followed by a visit to Lisbon Community Federal Credit Union on Tuesday, March 27.  FMI on program and community partnership opportunities email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org or call 754.0021.

Lisbon Interact Supports Greater Androscoggin Humane Society‏

LISBON INTERACT MEMBERS GOING TO THE DOGS (AND OTHER CRITTERS) AT GREATER ANDROSCOGGIN HUMANE SOCIETY

Lisbon – Members of Lisbon High School’s Interact Club, along with their advisor, Monica Millhime,  attended a training session at the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society.  Volunteer Coordinator, Sandra Graul, held the class on Thursday, February 9 at the facility located at 55 Strawberry Avenue in Lewiston.   “Our LHS Interact members have contributed over 4,000 hours of community service with 21 different areas of service, shares Millhime.  “The galvanized group of young Lisbon volunteers was recently awarded the WCSH6 Teens Who Care Award $2,000 grant for their dedication and Club mission of service above self.  After the training class, students presented a check for $300 to the Society, the first of 11 non-profit agencies targeted to receive donation assistance from the grant monies.   Pictured standing (l-r):  GAHS Volunteer Coordinator, Sandra Graul; Kyle Priddle, Kody Priddle, GAHS Operations Manager, Zachary Black; Morgan Reeves, Samantha Foote, LHS Interact Advisor, Monica Millhime; and GAHS Senior Animal Tech, Laura Giasson.  Front row (l-r):  Bryanna Sult; Melissa Hoskins; Kayla Angelico and Dillion Poole.  Members will be assisting at the shelter as a group on a monthly basis and individually as needed.  FMI on other projects and community partnerships in Lisbon Schools email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org or call 754.0021.  Visit us on Facebook at Community Resource News in Lisbon Schools. 

Join MHPC for Developing Student Success Through Online Learning - March 9‏

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Maine Heritage Policy Center

Cordially Invites You To Attend

 

Developing Student Success 

Through Online Learning:

Inform, Inspire, and Connect

 

 

Friday, March 9, 2012

9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Portland Marriott at Sable Oaks

200 Sable Oaks Drive

South Portland, Maine

 

Tickets are $45 and include lunch.

Tickets are complimentary to current elected officials 

and current school board members.

 

Click Here To Register

 

Please register online at www.mainepolicy.org or respond to Amanda Clark at 207-321-2550
or aclark@mainepolicy.org by Friday, March 2, 2012.

 

 

Agenda

 

9:00 a.m. Registration

 

9:30 a.m. Welcome

• Mr. Lance Dutson, Chief Executive Officer, The Maine Heritage Policy Center

 

9:45 a.m. The Blended Learning Model – 

“Leveraging Technology, Maximizing Results”

What is “blended” learning and who or what makes it successful? Where in Maine is it best to build this “hybrid” learning model? What are the steps to establishing blended learning and finally “maximizing” results? How do we make blended learning a truly comprehensive education?

• Mr. Rick Ogston, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Carpe Diem Schools

 

11:30 a.m. Curriculum Converted – 

From Paperback To “Padback”

• Mr. Jeff Hanjian, Regional Manager, Emantras, Inc.

 

11:45 a.m. Break

 

12:00 p.m. Lunch

 

12:15 p.m. Journey Of A Pioneer

• Dr. Reza Namin, Superintendent, Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District, Massachusetts

Nominated 2012 National Superintendent of the Year

 

1:00 p.m. Education Virtually Anywhere, Anytime Around The World

Where exactly do students participate in Florida Virtual School? How do you fund a state-based virtual learning program that is used around the world? What are the cost savings in furthering the development of virtual learning? Should Maine develop a state-based virtual school – why or why not?

• Ms. Julie Young, Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Florida Virtual School

 

2:30 p.m. So … How Does It Work?

• Ms. Kim Quinn Hutchinson, Vice President of School Development, K12, Inc.

 

2:45 p.m. Education 2.0 And Individualized Learning In Maine

• Commissioner Stephen Bowen, Maine Department of Education

 

Featured Exhibitors (to date)

Americans For Prosperity

Baxter Academy for Technology and Science

Connections Learning

Education2020 | Giant Campus

Emantras, Inc.

K12, Inc.

Ron Paul: When Push Comes to Shove‏

Dear Fellow Conservative,

Right now, I believe you and I are in the middle of one of the most important presidential elections in our country's history.

With our nation now over $15 trillion in debt, most Americans understand we must change course - and fast - or our children and grandchildren may never know the freedom and prosperity intended for us by the Founding Fathers.

When I first heard my supporters were throwing a "No One But Ron Paul" Money Bomb to show that no other candidate has a consistent track record of standing up to the Big Government, big spending status quo, I can't help but say I was truly flattered.

But the truth is, they couldn't be more right.

Just as my campaign's "Three of a Kind" ad points out, I'm afraid my establishment opponents just don't "get it."

Whether it's supporting the individual mandate so central to "ObamaCare," taking $1.6 million from Freddie Mac to keep the housing bubble growing, or voting for the largest expansion of entitlement spending since President Lyndon Johnson, when push comes to shove, they've all betrayed conservative principles.

If you agree that we can no longer tolerate candidates who are conservative in name only, I hope you'll contribute to this Money Bomb IMMEDIATELY.

You see, no other candidate:

***     Has stood up for limited government, free markets, sound money, and constitutional principles for over 30 years;

***     Predicted this entire economic mess we're in years before it happened and knows what it takes to get our economy moving in the right direction;

***     Answered the call to duty by serving our country as a Flight Surgeon in the U.S. Air Force and in the Air National Guard;

***     Issued a plan to enact one TRILLION in real spending cuts during the first year of his presidency, abolish five unconstitutional federal departments, and balance the federal budget by year three;

***     Authored legislation to immediately begin saving unborn lives by repealing Roe v. Wade, federally defining that life begins at conception, and stripping out-of-control judges of any jurisdiction over the abortion issue;

***     Fought to fully audit - and then END - the out-of-control Federal Reserve System and to stop the printing of money out of thin air that is destroying our middle class;

***     Consistently stood up for our God-given right to keep and bear arms guaranteed to us by the Second Amendment;

***     Pushed for passage of a National Right to Work law to end forced union dues nationwide;

***     Put forth a plan to stop illegal immigration and secure our own borders instead of the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The great news is, my campaign is really making waves.

We've seen incredibly strong finishes in states like Iowa, New Hampshire, Minnesota, and Maine.

And while my opponents have seen up-and-downs, my finishes have been strong and consistent.

All along the way, we're picking up hordes of delegates - the folks who will ultimately select who goes to Tampa, Florida, this August to decide who becomes our Republican nominee.

I believe we need a true constitutional conservative in the White House - a true champion of limited government and traditional values.

Quite frankly, not one of my opponents measures up.

So I hope you'll contribute to this Money Bomb immediately.

Every dollar you can give puts us one step closer to putting a real constitutional conservative in the White House.

Please pledge to contribute IMMEDIATELY!

For Liberty,


Ron Paul

P.S.  No other candidate predicted this entire economic mess we're in long before it happened and has offered a real plan to turn our country around.

That's why my supporters are holding an important Money Bomb to show that no other candidate has a track record of fighting for the principles of individual liberty, free markets, sound money, and constitutional government.

So please, contribute as generously as you can IMMEDIATELY to help me fight back against the Washington, D.C. political establishment and win the White House!

Paid for by Ron Paul 2012 Presidential Campaign Committee www.ronpaul2012.com   Nothing paid to The Lisbon Reporter.

Freedom "When the People Fear the Government there is Tyranny, When the Government Fears the People There is Liberty"

 "Judge Napolitano's Final Word on the Last Episode of Freedom Watch. FOX news did not "fire" the Judge... they just cancelled his show. According to Fox News press release, the Judge will be appearing again on Fox but Freedom Watch is done for.rather ironic a show about freedom got shut down. Although its sad to watch this end, one had to wonder how long it was going to last or how it even got on Fox News in the first place. Liberals have CurrenTV, perhaps its time to consider a new alternative..."
- Gerald Celente -

Reminder : Computer Safety Program TOMORROW February 16th at 6:30‏

Lisbon HS Thespians Prepare for One-Act Festival‏

LISBON HIGH SCHOOL THESPIANS PREPARE FOR ONE-ACT COMPETITION

Lisbon - In preparation for the annual MPA One Act Play Festival, Lisbon High School Drama Club proudly presents The Boor, by Anton Chekhov.

This short farce written in 1888 shows the characteristics of the genre in its rapid-fire dialogue, extreme emotions, chaotic arguments and surprising reversals. Anton Chekhov demonstrates how intense emotions can easily blend from one into the other.
  
A widow, who mourns for her husband seven months after his death, is approached by one of his creditors, a man in dire financial circumstances who desperately requires the money that the widow's husband owed him. The exchange between the widow and the creditor quickly progresses from polite to an explosive battle of the sexes, and the creditor, who expresses his negative opinion of women in general, is transformed by the spirit with which the widow argues with him.
   
Performances on Friday, March 2nd and Saturday, March 3rd at Lisbon High School, 2 Sugg Drive in Lisbon Falls at 7:00pm and the Festival Performance will be held on Saturday, March 10th between 12:00- 4:00pm at Leavitt Area High School.

FMI contact drama advisor, Jen Fox at 353.3030 or email jfox@lisbonschoolsme.org.  Visit us at Community Resource News in Lisbon Schools on Facebook.






 
Pictured (l-r) : 1st row Bre Cota, Dillon Fox. 2nd row Melissa Hoskins, Robert Dall, Amy Law, Devan LeBreque
 

 Pictured (l-r): 1st row Bre Cota, Dillon Fox. 2nd row Robert Dall, Amy Law, Devan LeBreque, Melissa Hoskins
 

Lisbon's Own Rockin' T Equine Rescue Needs Our Help

                                                     WE NEED YOUR HELP

The Rockin’ “T” Equine Rescue is owned and operated by Janet and Andy Tuttle since 1996 right here in Lisbon on Edgecomb Road. 

 Janet Tuttle

 What is it you ask?  It is a rescue shelter for all abused animals.  It started out as only a rescue shelter for horses but over the years has developed into an abused shelter for all animals.  

 These animals come from the State, Animal Control Officers and are even purchased at times in order to save these animals.  Currently, at this facility are 29 horses, 15 chickens, 1 lama, 1 Emu, 2 donkeys, 3 goats, 1 goose, 7 dogs and 3 cats.  These animals require a lot of attention every day of the week.  There are no days off for Janet and Andy Tuttle.  

 Warren Goddard

 Fortunately, Warren Goddard has volunteered his time and assists the Tuttle’s every day.  The Tuttle’s have other volunteers who help when they can.   As you can tell this is quite an operation but the Tuttle’s love for animals makes this worthwhile.

The Rockin’ “T” Equine Rescue is a non-profit organization under the provisions of 501©(3) IRS tax codes; who needs our assistance.  An undertaking of this size is very costly and this is where the residents of Lisbon and the State of Maine can help.  There are two ways people can assist.  The first one is to logon to www.bangor.com/cmm which is a web site for the Bangor Savings Bank which has a contest going where the Bangor Savings Bank is giving back to the communities of Maine.  All you have to do is logon to the web site; click on the box which reads “Cast Your Vote Today”; scroll down to the section for “Portland/Lewiston-Auburn” and click on a write in box and enter Rockin’ “T” Equine Rescue.  THIS COSTS YOU NOTHING MORE THAN A FEW MINUTES OF YOUR TIME!  According to the information I have received 68 grants will be awarded.  The top vote-getting organization in each region, including write-ins, will receive $5,000.  The remaining 60 organization will each receive $1,000.  Any amount of money received will go a long way to feed, shelter and caring for these animals.

The second way is through tax free donations under the provisions of the 501©(3) of the IRS tax codes.  You simple login to the rescue web site and follow the instructions provide.  This web site is www.rockintequinerescue.com .  I completely understand that times are hard right now and every penny counts but this also applies to these animals.  If there are any organizations which would like to adopt the rescue farm or volunteer their time would be greatly appreciated.  REMEMBER ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE.  There are no donations too small and every bit helps!!!!!!!

If there are any questions or concerns you have or even want to donate your time, please do not hesitate to contract Janet or Andy Tuttle at 353-6581.

Larry Fillmore
Concerned Citizen

Lisbon PWS Ashlee Stone Student Awards‏

PHILIP W. SUGG MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS ANNOUNCE

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Lisbon – Philip W. Sugg Middle School Principal, Kate Race, (pictured far right) and Assistant Principal/CCD, Thomas Landberg (left) congratulated the second quarter sixth, seventh and eighth grade students as recipients of the Student Achievement Ashlee Stone Memorial Awards during a recent assembly.  

Second quarter award winners were (seated l-r):  Seventh grade student, Cierra Miller, daughter of Diana Pyrdeck of Lisbon Falls; sixth grade student, Patience Ottaviano, Mercy and Conrad Thomas of Lisbon Falls; eighth grade student, Samantha Bolduc, daughter of Tara and Patrick Bolduc of Lisbon Falls.  Back row:  Assistant Principal/AD, Tom Landberg, seventh grade student, Jacob Fusaro, son of Jeannette and John Fusaro of Lisbon; sixth grade student, Nickolas Austin, son of Amy and Patrick Austin, Lisbon Falls; and eighth grade student Jacob Bussiere, son of Jennifer and Robert Bussiere of Lisbon Falls; and Principal Kate Race. 

“Each quarter, students from the sixth, seventh and eight grades are nominated by grade level teachers.  The award has been renamed in honor of the memory of former PWS student, Ashlee Stone.   The award is given in memory of Ashlee Stone, a seventh grade student, who was a positive role model in our school, shares Principal Race.   “Ashlee was known for her willingness to learn, having a positive attitude, being respectful to adults and her peers, being a risk taker, persevering when the going got rough, handling conflict with grace, being a friend to everyone, being a leader, and especially for her smile,” commented Assistant Principal Landberg.    These students were chosen for this award because they demonstrate all or many of these qualities.

FYI on student programs and other projects at Philip W. Sugg Middle School, contact Community Resource Coordinator, Monica Millhime at 754-0021 or email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org or visit www.lisbonschoolsme.org.  Like us on FaceBook at Community Resource News in Lisbon Schools. 

LCS Second Graders Send Hearts to Seniors‏

LISBON SECOND GRADERS SEND HEARTS TO SENIORS

 Pictured (l-r) front row:   Cody Tardif, Addisen Turcotte, Erin Harlow, Zachary Kulow, Andrew Wilcox, Uriah Carver;

second row: Nick Ferrence, Paige Brawn, Madyson Ramsey, Luke Scribner, Caleb Coburn; back row: McKenzie Ventry, Sarah Pitcher, Acadia Rugullies, Wyatt Perron, Megan Belanger, Jessica Wile

Missing from photo: Annika Golino.  Photo by Chris Cormier.

Lisbon - Students in Mrs. Chris Cormier's second grade class at Lisbon Community School once again participated in the Hearts for Seniors Project for the residents at the Lamp Alzheimer’s Facility in Lisbon.  Students volunteered their time to make special Valentines for the residents at the nursing home.  This is the seventh year students in Mrs. Cormier’s class assisted with the project.  “The students love making the connections in the community with our seniors.  They make their Valentine’s very unique and many of my students include poems and other messages with their Valentine cards,” shares Cormier. For more information on classroom partnerships at Lisbon Community School contact Monica Millhime, Community Resources by calling 754-0021 or email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org.

Lisbon Community Drama Teaches Inspirational Lessons‏

Lisbon – Members of the eighth annual drama production at Lisbon Community School were proud to present a play in a day, Get Up and Grow, by Michael and Jill Gallina to family and friends on February 3 and 4.  Cast members included Lena Couture, Charlee Cox, Eva Deveau, Aubrey Huntington, Abby Lebel, Siara Martin, Destinee Miller, David Poulin, Megan Ross, Katie Scroggins, Carolyn Shane, Elise Smith, Jack Tibbetts and Faith Williams. 

The script encouraged children to experience growing up with joy and anticipation.  The songs inspired tools for success with proper exercise, good manners, being a loyal friend and helping out at home and school.  Overall the presentation, directed by Laurie Adams and assistant director, Donna Rimiller,  provided a level of sensitivity for students to recognize the need to be kind and thoughtful to others. 

Crew members included Angel Tibbetts, Lisa Brown, Teri Huntington, Maxine Shane, Kathy Claerr, Ruth Couture, Levi Tibbetts, Ethan Brown, Nash Samay-Houle, Jamie McAlpine, Michael Adams, Karen Nichols and the PWS Art Club, Schott Scroggins, Henry Eichman, Pamela Shane, Betty Fogg, Janis Browning, Victoria Worden, Carol Day, Jennifer Robitaille, Nathaniel, Meredith and Gerry Huntington.  Special thanks to Carlene Iverson, Ryan Patrie, Monica Millhime and the LCS Volunteers,  Charles, Rachel and Robin Roy, Jim Damsgaard, the LCS kitchen and custodial staff, Matthew Watras and the LCS Music Department, LCS Civil Rights Team, Candace Barrett and the LCS PTO, The Candy Men, Coca Cola, and International Paper. 

The annual fifth grade talent show is scheduled for Friday, May 11.  Watch for more details!

 Pictured (l-r) front row: Henry Eichman, Ruth Couture, Carol Day, Angel Tibbetts, Maxine Shane, Laurie Adams, Donna Rimiller, Scott Scroggins, Jennifer Robitaille, Lisa Brown, Ethan Brown (Missing from the photo Kathy Claerr)

Back Row:  Jack Tibbetts, Charlee Cox, David Poulin, Eva Deveau, Abby Lebel, Carolyn Shane, Katie Scroggins, Destinee Miller, Megan Ross, Aubrey Huntington, Siara Martin, Elise Smith (Missing from the photo Faith Williams)

FMI on other events and program in Lisbon Schools email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org or call 754.0021 and visit us at Community Resource News in Lisbon Schools on Facebook.

Lisbon Students Awarded Teens Who Care Grant‏

Lisbon Young Adult / Interact Members Awarded Teens Who Care Award 

  Lisbon students will be sharing their recent award of a $2,000 grant with 11 local charities.  Thanks to the combined efforts of students contributing over 4,000 hours of community service the monies will assist the efforts of many non-profits in Lisbon and beyond.  Pictured (l-r) front row:  Lily Wade, Kailyn Hill, Samantha Foote, Taylor Plourde, Jenna Clifford, Abigail Roy, Paula Caron and Paige Galligan.  Second row:  Sydney Tolbert, Emma Wilson, Sierra Crosby, Ginny Tolbert, Nichole Jones, Tiffany Hursh, Sarah Craig, Lindsey Whitney, Delanie Ouellette, Amanda Blancato (membership pending); Sarah Giraldo, Melissa Hoskins, Kayla Angelico.  Back row:  Adam Thebeau, Ryan Buzzell, Tyler Daly, Robert Wood, Dillon Poole, Brandon Laurelez, Nick Corey, Kyle Priddle, Kody Priddle, Connor Craig and Morgan Reeves.  Not available for photo: Brianna Bennett, Kristianna Benoit, Jack Caron, Erik Chapman, Brianna Cota, Robert Dall, Nikkole Gardner, DJ Judd, Bryanna Sult, Charles Sult, Dustin Wood and Kristen Wood.  Photo courtesy of Geskus Photography. 

Lisbon - The Lisbon High School Young Adult / Interact Club members are a remarkable group of teens from freshman to seniors.  Recently Club Advisor, Monica Millhime, was notified students were selected as recipients 2012 February Teens Who Care Award.  Millhime nominated the group for their community service efforts of contributing over 4,000 hours of service.  “Membership requires students to attend a detailed-oriented training class prior to assisting with any school or community projects,” shares Millhime.  “Students assist as reading buddies to younger students at Lisbon Community School and as tutors for middle school and underclassmen.  There are numerous capacities where individual students assist teachers in their classrooms, offer babysitting for the parent groups, chaperones for school events, serve on fundraising and community serve projects in school and the greater community. Groups of students assist with lawn work, visiting at the local nursing home, assist at the local food and clothing bank and other community events throughout the year.”   As winners of the award, the group was presented with a $2,000 grant to be donated to non-profit agencies of their choice.  Students have voted on eleven local charities to be receiving donations.  The group was modeled after the adult volunteer program and continues to grow with support from parents who set the example of volunteers who make a difference in our schools and our community.  FMI on events and other programs at Lisbon High School email mmillhime@lisbonschoolsme.org or call 754.0021.  Check out all the latest events by visiting Community Resource News in Lisbon Schools on Facebook.